Bangladeshi cellco Robi Axiata has introduced high definition (HD) voice service across its 3.5G network – claiming a first in Bangladesh – for enhanced communications quality between HD Voice-capable handset users, the Dhaka Tribune reports. Robi elaborated on its ‘country first’ claim by adding that it is the first mobile operator in Bangladesh to be accredited by international association GSMA as providing HD Voice standard services, alongside 109 mobile operators globally.

In other news, Robi is aiming to transfer 80% ownership in its passive network infrastructure assets to a subsidiary of its Malaysian parent Axiata Group. As reported by the Daily Star, Robi seeks permission from the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) to transfer 80% equity in its subsidiary Edotco Bangladesh to Malaysia’s Edotco Group, which is fully owned by Axiata Group. The passive network infrastructure includes wireless towers, buildings, batteries, power and cooling systems. A legal spokesperson for the BTRC said that the commission is examining whether the share transfer would affect the subsidiary characteristics of the company, noting that Robi would lose its control over infrastructure after the 80% share deal, adding that the matter was on the agenda for an upcoming meeting, while a Robi spokesperson told the newspaper that discussions with the BTRC are ongoing.